There is a lot more to creating a great home theater than buying a lot of high end electronics and hooking them up in your living room.  Whether you are going to use a dedicated room or part of an existing living space, the design of the room is just as important as the electronics.  Before you head off to the electronics superstore, spend some time planning your home theater design. 

Even the highest end electronics will give disappointing results in a poor environment.  On the other hand, mid range equipment in a well designed home theater room can provide outstanding results.  The lesson here is not to spend your entire budget on equipment before you address the design of the room.

At a minimum you need to address acoustics, lighting, seating placement, heating and air conditioning, wiring and electrical, and the type and size of your audio visual equipment.  Uncarpeted floors, concrete walls, and unfinished ceilings will result in disappointing acoustics.  Walls that are very light colored can cause too much reflected light.  Shiny glass, chrome, or mirrored furniture or wall hangings can create annoying reflections. 

Be sure the temperature in the room can be controlled to a comfortable level without creating drafts, especially where you plan to put seating.  You don’t want an air conditioning vent blowing directly on where you plan to sit. Also, make sure that the electrical supply in the room is sufficient and give some thought to how to run any necessary wiring.

Consider hiring an experienced home theatre design contractor.  They can save you time and money by designing an excellent home theater that will meet your needs and fit your budget.